Sara Jacobs: “these AUMFs were literally voted on when I was 2 years old and 13 years old, respectively, and now I am old enough to be…”

“these AUMFs were literally voted on when I was 2 years old and 13 years old, respectively, and now I am old enough to be a Member of Congress. Let's be clear. Presidents from both parties have abused these AUMFs, and my generation is tired of these endless, forever wars. We know that President Trump will exploit, bend, and break any law. The courts have even said it. That is why this body should leave no ambiguity, no wiggle room, and no daylight about our congressional intent and congressional authority. Congress has the sole constitutional right to declare war, not President Trump or any other President. Yet, we have already seen this President take unauthorized military strikes in places like Yemen, Somalia, Syria, and Iraq. Earlier this year, he launched strikes on Iran without congressional authorization. Right now, he is weighing military strikes on cartels in Venezuela and hasn't sought congressional authorization. This body should not sit idly by while the President makes a mockery of our Constitution and our laws. We--only we--have the power to declare war. I urge my colleagues to pass our bipartisan amendment and repeal these outdated AUMFs.”